Castro Valley Auto Repair

Changing a dead car battery used to be simple. As a matter of fact, if you could lift it, you could change it. Not so anymore.  As the vehicles get more and more computers, internal networks, and sophisticated energy management systems, changing a battery has become more and more complicated.  For example, many cars, including BMW and Audi vehicles, not only require a new battery, but also a professional digital tool to program / register the battery. This tool is required to alert the car that a new battery is in (and to provide the Battery Control Module (BCM) with the correct parameters for correctly charging the new battery).  As cars get smarter, more and more functions get computerized. So as the battery ages, the alternator (which recharges car battery), is adapting the charge it delivers to the fading capabilities of the battery. When you put a new battery in, without alerting the alternator to the change, you could end up killing the new battery by overchargi ... read more

Are your vehicle’s brakes due for brake pad replacement? Other than metal-to-metal grinding noise when braking (that’s a dead giveaway), how does one know it’s time for brake pad replacement? At Adams Autoworx in Castro Valley, we measure the thickness of the brake pads. Most manufacturers recommend brake pad replacement between 1 mm and 4 mm. But to measure the brake pad thickness we get the car up on a lift. What clues can you use at home to figure out if it’s time for brake pad replacement? Some of the newer vehicles are full of electronic sensors – they may turn on a dashboard light indicating it’s time for brake service.  Squeaking or squealing while braking usually indicates it’s time to visit your friendly mechanic.  Vibration when braking – this often indicates warped rotors, and typically this comes about along with worn out brake pads. If your vehicle exhibits any of the above symptoms, bring it t ... read more

Your Lexus is a beautiful luxury vehicle, in fact these days “Lexus” is synonymous with “luxury”. However, even a car as well made as a Lexus may be in need of repair sometimes. Regular service will help to maintain your Lexus in peak condition and lessen chances of unexpected malfunctions.  Here are some tips to keep in mind to ensure your Lexus is running smoothly: Follow factory recommended service schedule Regular oil changes are vital to your Lexus Keep tires inflated to manufacturer recommended pressure Ask your mechanic about brake fluid exchange and transmission fluid exchange The best piece of advice when it comes to Lexus repair is to take it to a trusted auto mechanic for routine maintenance and inspection. If you catch any potential problems early on, you will end up saving money in the long run. Then, you can enjoy driving your Lexus for many years to come!  At Adams Autoworx in Castro Valley we offer not only full range Lexus mainte ... read more